Best New York Vacations

A trip to New York City is a dream for many people. Although the big city lights and the famous skyline are certainly worth seeing, there's much more to New York vacations than the Big Apple. Review this list of things to do in New York to make sure you discover the entire region.

The Highlights of the Big Apple

Of course, everyone should see this city at least once in their lifetime. If you're only spending part of your trip within the famous five boroughs, here's a few things you should see:

• The Statue of Liberty - An up-close view of Lady Liberty will become a cherished memory. If you're in great shape, why not climb all the way to the top for a spectacular view of the city's skyline and the Atlantic Ocean?
• Times Square - You've seen this world-famous intersection on TV a million times. Why not take this chance to see it for real?
• Broadway - Even if you can't score tickets for a hit production, it's worth it just to stroll down this popular street for the ambiance.
• Central Park - Again, you've seen it a million times on the big and little screens - you'll kick yourself if you don't stroll through the park during your trip to the city.

Beautiful State Parks

Once you finish with New York things to do in the city, you'll find that there's so much more to New York State. In fact, this part of the country is home to some of the most beautiful public parks in the nation. New York vacations can include a visit to any of these lovely natural areas:

• Taughannock Falls State Park - Climb the gorge trail to get a closer look at the park's namesake, a spectacular 215-foot-high waterfall.
• Buttermilk Falls State Park - If you can't get enough of waterfalls, this is the park for you. With 10 different water features, the drops vary from cascades to plunges.
• Fire Island National Seashore - Located on Long Island, this national park is home to coastal wildlife and offers miles of shoreline to its visitors.

If you enjoy spending time in one of these charming parks, book your stay in a vacation rental home near your favorite. This choice of accommodations allows you to spend your days enjoying the natural beauty of New York in addition to the convenience of an actual home during the rest of your vacation.

The Baseball Hall of Fame

No list of things to do in New York would be complete without a trip to Cooperstown. This legendary baseball museum contains both the Hall of Fame and a museum filled with baseball memorabilia. Whether you're a lifelong baseball fan or you have a Little League player in your family, this is a must-see destination for many New York tourists.

Summertime in New York

It can get pretty hot in the city, so why not vacation beach or lakeside instead? New York has waterfront rentals all over, from Long Beach Island beach rentals to lake homes in the Finger Lakes to the luxury of the Hamptoms. Swimming, fishing, and boating is just as popular as sightseeing in New York.  

New York Ski Areas

Although New York vacations aren't as famous for winter sports as other locales, you can find plenty to do on the slopes, at the Adirondacks and the Catskills. In fact, according to the New York ski experts, this state has more skiable mountains than any other state. If you only have time to hit one set of slopes during your trip, venture out to Whiteface to test your skills on this area's signature attraction: a 3,430-foot vertical drop that's the highest of its kind on the East Coast. If this challenge surpasses your skill level, don't worry; Whiteface has ski areas for all types of visitors.

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in New York! What's your favorite activity?